CARNIVAL TRAVEL
11.02.-22.02.2026* (Sold out)
Carnival in Cape Verde is a special kind of spectacle. In Mindelo, it is also known as "little Brazil".
Originally, sailors from Brazil brought the festival to the island. The rhythms are a mixture of Brazilian samba and the original African Cape Verdean sound. Carnival celebrations take place on several islands. In Mindelo on São Vicente, however, you can immerse yourself in the most important, colorful and flashy celebration in Cape Verde.
The port city of Mindelo is transformed into "Little Brazil". There is dancing, partying and singing and you can experience the exuberant dress rehearsal of the samba schools for the big competition on Tuesday with all your senses. Eyes, noses and ears are spoiled - magnificent costumes, rhythmic sounds and imaginative floats parade through the city center. Mindelo vibrates!
The highlight of every carnival season is the competition between the various samba schools. Who will receive the most points from the jury for the overall work of art? Who will win the competition and be rewarded for the elaborate overall performance? The parade, an exciting and unique spectacle, is attended by most of the island's inhabitants, emigrants and tourists, who line the streets. Mindelo is in a state of emergency, it is loud, colorful, cheerful and flashy. Not quite as big as Rio, but no less spectacular!
Colorful carnival parade in the afternoon in Mindelo on the island of São Vicente.
Included in the Price
Flights from/to Zurich in economy class, arrival and departure transfer on São Vicente, 8 nights in a mid-range hotel including breakfast, dance show, dance class with a local samba dancer, excursions with local English-speaking guides (described below):
Half-day excursions “Nos Kultura di Karnaval,” “Nôs Ilha - Txeu Stória, Txeu Vida,” “Pintura na Rua” including soft drinks & snacks, full-day excursions “Entre Mar & Monte” and “Kultura na Prato” with lunch including soft drinks, beer & wine, lunch on the first day and farewell dinner on the last evening including soft drinks, beer & wine, tips for guides, drivers, as well as in the hotel and restaurants.
Extras
Flight surcharge if the calculated booking class is not available, additional excursions and extensions (bookable through o Ritmo), overnight stay in Lisbon on the return journey (bookable through o Ritmo), meals not mentioned, visa/entry registration for Cape Verde (approx. EUR 31.00 per person), travel insurance
Entry Requirements for Swiss and EU Citizens
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date and entry registration (either online or upon arrival). o Ritmo is happy to assist.
Aussicht vom Balkon auf den Wettstreit der Sambaschulen durch die Strassen von Mindelo
Reiseprogramm
Day 1: Arrival in Cape Verde
Departure from Zurich at 06:10 AM, arrival in Lisbon at 08:05 AM. Transfer and onward flight to São Vicente. Departure from Lisbon at 09:15 AM, arrival in São Vicente at 12:40 PM. Transfer to the hotel. After arrival and check-in at the hotel, we meet for a shared late lunch.
Day 2: Half-day excursion “Nos Kultura di Karnaval” (Our Culture of Carnival)
Today, on a guided tour, we learn more about Carnival and its significance in Cape Verde. We take a behind-the-scenes look and gain fascinating insights into the impressive preparations.
Day 3: Half-day excursion “Nôs Ilha - Txeu Stória, Txeu Vida” (Our Island – many stories, much life) and dance show
With our local guide, we stroll through the charming port town of Mindelo and learn more about the history of Cape Verde. We visit the fish and vegetable market, the “Mercado Municipal,” the arts courtyard, and get a great overview of the city. We meet a musician and learn more about his work and the vibrant music scene in São Vicente. In the evening, we meet for a dance show and get a glimpse into the various dances of Cape Verde.
Day 4: Full-day excursion “Entre Mar & Monte” (Between Sea & Mountains)
Today we explore the island of São Vicente. From “Alto Fortim,” we enjoy a wonderful view over Mindelo before heading up to “Monte Verde,” the highest mountain on the island. We stop in Salamansa and then head to Baía das Gatas. Afterward, we visit the dunes of Calhau as well as the small village of Calhau, before returning to Mindelo.
Day 5: “Samba na Alma” and Mandingas Parade
Together with a local samba dancer, we learn the basic steps in a samba dance class.
Weeks before Carnival, the Mandingas parade through the streets every Sunday. Mandingas are locals dressed as warriors, reconnecting with their identity and prehistoric roots, mainly from the African continent. We follow the parades live.
Day 6: Carnival Parade of Samba Tropical
Samba Tropical is the only samba school that does not participate in the main competition on Carnival Tuesday and therefore holds its own parade the day before. The group mainly consists of migrants from the USA and Portugal. As they have a higher budget, they refrain from participating in the main contest out of fairness. You’ll follow this parade live (either from the stands or from the street).
Day 7: Samba School Competition
It’s a special day. The various samba schools compete against each other, and it’s a unique pleasure to witness this contest. Who will receive the most points from the jury for music, dance, costumes, floats, and their message? You follow this parade live (either from the stands or from the street).
Day 8: Free Day (optional: São Pedro)
After two Carnival days, a free day is planned. o Ritmo is happy to provide tips for excursions around the island. Spending the day at the beautiful sandy beach of São Pedro is an ideal getaway and pure relaxation.
Day 9: Day trip “Kultura na Prato” (Culture on a Plate) and “Nos noite no ritmo” (Our Night in Our Rhythm)
With our guide, we stroll through various markets and buy fresh vegetables, fish, and local specialties. Then we drive just outside of Mindelo to a “Quintinha” (small farm), prepare a delicious meal together, and enjoy the afternoon. In the evening, we enjoy a sunset and visit hidden corners and special places unknown to most tourists.
Day 10: Half-day excursion “Pinturas na Rua” (Street Paintings) and Farewell Dinner
With our local guide and artist, we walk through various neighborhoods in Mindelo and learn more about the city’s art scene. In the evening, we meet for a final dinner and reflect on the journey together.
Day 11: Departure to Lisbon or Individual Extension (bookable through o Ritmo)
Transfer to the airport and flight with TAP Air Portugal to Lisbon. Departure from São Vicente at 1:30 PM, arrival in Lisbon at 6:30 PM. Overnight stay in Lisbon or extension (bookable through o Ritmo).
Day 12: Flight Lisbon to Zurich
Flight from Lisbon to Zurich. Departure at 8:50 AM, arrival in Zurich at 12:40 PM.
Program subject to change. The order of excursions may vary.
